Professional Relationships & Expectations

Graduate Student Responsibilities & Expectations

Students should make sure that there is a good correspondence between individual educational career goals and the particular program features of the department in which study is contemplated. Such a determination will ideally be made before admission to the department. The department head or graduate coordinator can answer specific questions about research or artistic programs, departmental requirements, financial support, placement opportunities, etc. Once admitted, students should monitor events that may affect their educational and career goals. Students should remember, too, that department heads, advisors, and committee members can often be helpful sources for counseling and contacts leading to successful career placement.

The student is responsible for knowing departmental and University requirements and standards. If any questions arise, the student should seek clarification within the department or from the Graduate School.

The student is responsible for keeping his or her advisor and Advisory Committee members informed of progress in the program of study and for regularly consulting the advisor and committee. If changes are made in the program of study, the student is responsible for securing approval of all members of the committee beforehand.

Principles of Community

The Principles of Community support the Colorado State University mission and vision of access, research, teaching, service and engagement. A collaborative and vibrant community is a foundation for learning, critical inquiry, and discovery. Therefore, each member of the CSU community has a responsibility to uphold these principles when engaging with one another and acting on behalf of the University.

Inclusion: We create and nurture inclusive environments and welcome, value and affirm all members of our community, including their various identities, skills, ideas, talents and contributions.

Integrity: We are accountable for our actions and will act ethically and honestly in all our interactions.

Respect: We honor the inherent dignity of all people within an environment where we are committed to freedom of expression, critical discourse, and the advancement of knowledge.

Service: We are responsible, individually and collectively, to give of our time, talents, and resources to promote the well-being of each other and the development of our local, regional, and global communities.

Social Justice: We have the right to be treated and the responsibility to treat others with fairness and equity, the duty to challenge prejudice, and to uphold the laws, policies and procedures that promote justice in all respects.